Perimeter North Lifestyle September 2014

September 2014 Issue of Perimeter North Lifestyle

Road Trip
St. Francis Inn chef Janice Leary with the nightly dessert preparation
Cathedral Basilica
New Hospitality and Culture in
America’s Oldest City
St. Augustine, FL
Article and Photography Ruksana Hussain
F
lorida has always been a favorite getaway destination for Atlantans, and St. Augustine should surely be on top of that list. A
half day’s drive will find you in America’s oldest city, celebrating its
450th birthday next year. If you decide to stay at the St. Francis Inn,
you will be sleeping in the oldest inn in the oldest city. This charming
little bed and breakfast has history that dates back to the 1700s.
The rooms are delightfully cozy, retaining their old world charm yet
providing every comfort you can imagine. Breakfasts, refreshments
throughout the day, a happy hour in the evening and nightly desserts are offered from Chef Janice Leary. Owners Joe and Margaret
Finnegan have done a fantastic job of maintaining the inn that is on
the National Register of Historic Places and providing an oasis of
comfort in true Floridian style.
St. Augustine is a great destination, whether you are a history geek or nature lover, party person or foodie. You can relax
and enjoy the beach, or head out to discover and explore. St.
Augustine is pedestrian friendly, especially in the historic district where most monuments and museums are located. Those
alone can take you a day or more depending on how much local
history and culture you want to absorb. The city was, after all,
the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement and port in the continental United States and still serves as
the headquarters for the Florida National Guard. Be sure to visit
the Castillo de San Marcos, Lighthouse, Flagler College, Lightner
Museum, Cathedral Basilica and County Jail – all notable characters in the city’s long history.
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PerimeterNorthLifestyle.com | September 2014
Out and about
eco tour on the water: Walk over to the marina for an eco-adventure
with Zach McKenna of St. Augustine Eco Tours. His team takes you by
boat into the waters to discover local marine life such as dolphins, birds,
manatees and, on a good day, even jelly fish and crabs. They offer kayaking and sailing excursions as well. StAugustineEcoTours.com
tasting tour: An old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage is your mode of
transport as you meander through the streets in true southern comfort,
tasting and sipping at St. Augustine’s historic district’s award-winning
restaurants. Tour options cover everything from beer and wine to food,
and even a private lovers’ tour. TheTastingTours.com
colonial quarter: A breathtaking revitalized 2-acre signature attraction in the heart of the city with living history demonstrations,
graphical stories and interactive activities bring authentic British
and Spanish characters to life. The tour guides here are a hoot! Also
you may lunch at “La Taverna del Caballo”. ColonialQuarter.com
When Hunger Strikes
hot shot bakery: Luscious sweet potato waffles with homemade caramel sauce and bananas make the perfect start to the day. Chef/Owner
Sherry Stoppelbein is the creator of Datil B Good hot sauces and her café
is comfort food all the way. Try one of the peppers dipped in chocolate
for a place on the wall of f(l)ame! DatilBGood.com, HotShotBakery.com